Textbook-Integrated Guide to Educational Resources

TIGER

The History of Element 43—TechnetiumRoberto ZingalesThe author is grateful for additional information that allowed him to correct an earlier mistake.Zingales, Roberto. J. Chem. Educ.2006, 83, 213.

Isotopes |

Nuclear / Radiochemistry |

Periodicity / Periodic Table

The History of Element 43—TechnetiumFathi HabashiThe article From Masurium to Trinacrium: The Troubled Story of Element 43 is the best story so far published about the history of technetium. There is, however, one paragraph on the right column of page 226 that is questionable.Habashi, Fathi. J. Chem. Educ.2006, 83, 213.

Isotopes |

Nuclear / Radiochemistry |

Periodicity / Periodic Table

The History of Element 43—TechnetiumFathi HabashiThe article From Masurium to Trinacrium: The Troubled Story of Element 43 is the best story so far published about the history of technetium. There is, however, one paragraph on the right column of page 226 that is questionable.Habashi, Fathi. J. Chem. Educ.2006, 83, 213.

E = mc2 for the Chemist: When Is Mass Conserved?Richard S. TreptowEinstein's famous equation is frequently misunderstood in textbooks and popular science literature. Its correct interpretation is that mass and energy are different measures of a single quantity known as massenergy, which is conserved in all processes.Treptow, Richard S. J. Chem. Educ.2005, 82, 1636.

Atomic Properties / Structure |

Nuclear / Radiochemistry |

Theoretical Chemistry |

Thermodynamics

Based on a True Story: Using Movies as Source Material for General Chemistry ReportsMark A. Griep and Marjorie L. MikasenPresents a list of one dozen, highly rated movies in which the focus is either a scientist's chemical research or the societal impact of some chemical compound. The method by which two of these movies were used as source material for a written report in a general chemistry course is described.Griep, Mark A.; Mikasen, Marjorie L. J. Chem. Educ.2005, 82, 1501.

The Living Textbook of Nuclear Chemistry: A Peer-Reviewed, Web-Based, Education ResourceW. Loveland, A. Gallant, and C. JoinerThe Living Textbook of Nuclear Chemistry is a collection of supplemental materials for teaching nuclear and radiochemistry. It contains audiovideo presentations of the history of nuclear chemistry; tutorial lectures by recognized experts on advanced topics in nuclear and radiochemistry; links to data compilations, articles, and monographs; an audio course on radiochemistry; and online editions of textbooks, training videos, etc. All content has been refereed. Loveland, W. D.; Gallant, A.; Joiner, C. J. Chem. Educ.2004, 81, 1670.

Nuclear / Radiochemistry

How Radioactive Is Your Banana?David W. BallThis exercise uses a banana to illustrate the level of radioactivity (in this case, from K-40) in an everyday object. Ball, David W. J. Chem. Educ.2004, 81, 1440.

The Mendeleev-Seaborg Periodic Table: Through Z = 1138 and BeyondPaul J. KarolExtending the periodic table to very large atomic numbers and its implications for the organization of the periodic table, consideration of relativistic effects, and the relative stability of massive and supermassive atomic nuclei.Karol, Paul J. J. Chem. Educ.2002, 79, 60.

A Different Approach to a 3-D Periodic System Including Stable IsotopesAlexandru T. BalabanOn a Periodic System with the two dimensions represented by Periods and Columns, one may stack each stable nuclide of an element along the third dimension. This "Downtown Area" representation is helpful for interconnecting concepts of: element, isotope or nuclide (stable vs. radioactive), atomic weight, atomic number, mass number. Balaban, Alexandru T. J. Chem. Educ.1999, 76, 359.

Periodicity / Periodic Table |

Isotopes |

Nuclear / Radiochemistry

Nucleogenesis! A Game with Natural Rules for Teaching Nuclear Synthesis and DecayDonald J. Olbris and Judith HerzfeldNucleogenesis! is a simple and engaging game designed to introduce undergraduate physics or chemistry students to nuclear synthesis and decay by simulation of these processes. By playing the game, students become more familiar with nuclear reactions and the "geography" of the table of isotopes. Olbris, Donald J.; Herzfeld, Judith. J. Chem. Educ.1999, 76, 349.

Isotopes |

Nuclear / Radiochemistry |

Nonmajor Courses

Chemistry of the Heaviest Elements-One Atom at a TimeDarleane C. Hoffman and Diana M. LeeA 75-year perspective of the chemistry of the heaviest elements, including a 50-year retrospective view of past developments, a summary of current research achievements and applications, and some predictions about exciting, new developments that might be envisioned within the next 25 years.Hoffman, Darleane C.; Lee, Diana M. J. Chem. Educ.1999, 76, 331.

Chromatography |

Instrumental Methods |

Isotopes |

Nuclear / Radiochemistry |

Separation Science |

Descriptive Chemistry |

Enrichment / Review Materials |

Atomic Properties / Structure

Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal: An Exercise in Dealing with PollutionGrant R. Krow and Jessica B. KrowA problem-based learning exercise based upon the need for society to dispose of low-level radioactive waste is presented. The exercise is structured as a classroom-centered group problem-based learning module, whose exploration will occupy at least two-three weeks of class time. The goals are to increase student understanding of chemistry and its relationship to ethics and political decision-making.Krow, Grant R.; Krow, Jessica B. J. Chem. Educ.1998, 75, 1583.

Learning Theories |

Nuclear / Radiochemistry |

Ethics

Modeling Nuclear Decay: A Point of Integration between Chemistry and MathematicsKent J. Crippen and Robert D. CurtrightA four-part activity utilizing a graphing calculator to investigate nuclear stability is described. Knowledge acquired through the activity provides background for answering the societal question of using nuclear materials for energy production. Crippen, Kent J.; Curtright, Robert D. J. Chem. Educ.1998, 75, 1434.

Nuclear / Radiochemistry |

Atomic Properties / Structure |

Chemometrics

Ernest Rutherford, Avogadro's Number, and Chemical KineticsI. A. LeensonThe paper presents a way for students to use data from Rutherford's works (1908 - 1911) in order to determine one of the most precise values of Avogadro Constant available at the beginning of the century. Leenson, I. A. J. Chem. Educ.1998, 75, 998.

Learning Theories |

Nuclear / Radiochemistry |

Kinetics

Dice Shaking as an Analogy for Radioactive Decay and First Order KineticsEmeric SchultzAn experiment involving the shaking of sets of different sided dice is described. Dice of 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 20 sides are readily available. This experiment serves as an easily understood analogy for radioactive decay and for the more general case of first order kinetics. Schultz, Emeric. J. Chem. Educ.1997, 74, 505.

Reports from Other Journals: Gleanings from Scientific AmericanPaul F. SchatzScientific American provides a rich resource of background and general interest material for topics of chemical interest that can be used to supplement and enhance chemistry lecture and laboratory courses.Schatz, Paul F. J. Chem. Educ.1996, 73, A234.

Cloud Chamber Activities for the High School ClassroomPerry, John Timothy; Sankey, Mary AnnInstructions for constructing and using an inexpensive cloud chamber; includes student assignments and sample data.Perry, John Timothy; Sankey, Mary Ann J. Chem. Educ.1995, 72, 339.

Wet labs, computers, and spreadsheetsDurham, BillThe following is a description of some commonly encountered experiments that have been modified for computerized data acquisition.Durham, Bill J. Chem. Educ.1990, 67, 416.

A student experiment to demonstrate the energy loss and straggling of electrons in matterde Bruin, M.; Huijgen, F. W. J.The experiment described has been applied routinely for several years in introductory courses in the application of radiation and isotopes. The results obtained give direct insight into the characteristics of the phenomena associated with the absorption of energetic electrons in matter.de Bruin, M.; Huijgen, F. W. J. J. Chem. Educ.1990, 67, 86.

Nuclear chemistry: Include it in your curriculumAtwood, Charles H.; Sheline, R. K.This article takes a look at some of the topics that might be included in a nuclear chemistry section of your chemistry course.Atwood, Charles H.; Sheline, R. K. J. Chem. Educ.1989, 66, 389.

Nuclear / Radiochemistry

Beta decay diagram Suder, RobertToo often instructors believe that students can intuitively understand nuclear decay from balanced equations, but it has been the author's experience that a diagram greatly enhances student knowledge of this process.Suder, Robert J. Chem. Educ.1989, 66, 231.

Nuclear / Radiochemistry

Nuclear waste glass, and the Fe2+/Fe3+ ratioFanning, James C.; Hunter, R. ToddThese authors present a chemical problem of current interest that can be used for pedagogical purposes.Fanning, James C.; Hunter, R. Todd J. Chem. Educ.1988, 65, 888.

Applications of Chemistry |

Consumer Chemistry |

Titration / Volumetric Analysis |

Oxidation State |

Nuclear / Radiochemistry |

Green Chemistry |

Chromatography |

Spectroscopy

Determining the solubility of Ca(OH)2 using 45Ca as a tracerEdmiston, Michael D.; Suter, Robert W.These authors have developed a simple lab that can be incorporated into freshman chemistry that allows students to understand the power of radiochemistry as an analytical tool as well as gain perspectives about real versus imagined dangers of radioactivity.Edmiston, Michael D.; Suter, Robert W. J. Chem. Educ.1988, 65, 279.

Nuclear / Radiochemistry |

Medicinal Chemistry

A method for teaching science, technology, and societal issues in introductory high school and college chemistry classesStreitberger, H. EricMost textbooks provide few, if any, systematic procedures for involving students with societal problems and issues in their lives related to chemistry. This is inconsistent with goals set in order to meet the growing need for students to be familiar with the science of (among other things) nutrition, environment, drugs, and more. This article gives a brief description of a project that acquaints students with these issues.Streitberger, H. Eric J. Chem. Educ.1988, 65, 60.

A chemistry lesson at Three Mile IslandMammano, Nicholas J.Teaching principles of general chemistry through references made to the nuclear incident at Three Mile Island.Mammano, Nicholas J. J. Chem. Educ.1980, 57, 286.

Equilibrium |

Gases |

Stoichiometry |

Nonmajor Courses |

Nuclear / Radiochemistry |

Applications of Chemistry

The case of the isotopic artistO'Connor, RodA problem regarding the decay of isotopes in pigments used to determine an art forgery.O'Connor, Rod J. Chem. Educ.1980, 57, 271.

Variation of radioactive decay ratesWolsey, Wayne C.133. It is stated frequently in introductory chemistry texts that radioactive decay rates are invariant. Students are led to the impression, implicitly, if not explicitly, that changes in chemical form, temperature, pressure, etc. have no effect upon the half-lives of unstable nuclei. This constancy of decay is perhaps true for some particular modes of decay, but by no means is it true for all.Wolsey, Wayne C. J. Chem. Educ.1978, 55, 302.

What is an element?Kolb, DorisReviews the history of the discovery, naming, and representation of the elements; the development of the spectroscope and the periodic table; radioactive elements and isotopes; allotropes; and the synthesis of future elements.Kolb, Doris J. Chem. Educ.1977, 54, 696.

Some simple classroom experiments on the Monte Carlo methodPara, A. Foglio; Lazzarini, E.In this present paper some applications of the Monte Carlo method suggested to freshmen in nuclear physics and chemistry courses are described. These applications are concerned with radioactive decay, statistical fluctuation of the decay, the slowing of fast neutrons, and the calculation of the ratio of partial cross sections of certain nuclear reactions.Para, A. Foglio; Lazzarini, E. J. Chem. Educ.1974, 51, 336.

Nuclear / Radiochemistry

High school/university cooperative experiment: The uptake of nuclear debris by treesGriffin, John J.; Driscoll, Joseph R.In a previous publication the detection and identification of airborne nuclear debris from the March 18, 1972 People's Republic of China nuclear test was reported as a useful technique. A followup investigation is documented by members of the freshman science class to determine if nuclear debris from the March 18 nuclear test or other recent tests has been incorporated into the vegetation within their immediate environment.Griffin, John J.; Driscoll, Joseph R. J. Chem. Educ.1974, 51, 270.

Chemistry in art. Radiochemistry and forgeryRogers, F. E.It wasn't until a radiochemical analysis in 1968 that a 1937 forgery of a 17th century Dutch master was confirmed as a fake.Rogers, F. E. J. Chem. Educ.1972, 49, 418.

Chemical queries. Especially for introductory chemistry teachersYoung, J. A.; Malik, J. G.(1) How can half-reactions be added to determine potentials? (2) What is the approximate size and weight of uranium-235 necessary for a chain reaction to occur? (3) What is the distinction between an inhibitor and a negative catalyst?Young, J. A.; Malik, J. G. J. Chem. Educ.1968, 45, 477.

Electrochemistry |

Nuclear / Radiochemistry |

Catalysis

Inexpensive applications of Polaroid filmScherer, George A.; Sakurai, Richard S.Describes the use of Polaroid film to detect emission spectra from a grating spectrograph, X-rays diffracted by crystals, and radioactivity from 14C in plant materials.Scherer, George A.; Sakurai, Richard S. J. Chem. Educ.1968, 45, 134.

Radioisotopes on your rooftopLockhart, Luther, B., Jr.The collection, recovery, and measurement of radioactive materials from atomic testing can be done through the use of relatively simple procedures and is a good exercise in tracer chemistry.Lockhart, Luther, B., Jr. J. Chem. Educ.1957, 34, 602.

Teaching mass-energy equivalenceFoster, Laurence S.It is the purpose of this paper to show how the concept of mass-energy equivalence may be introduced in an elementary chemistry course while retaining a focus on chemistry.Foster, Laurence S. J. Chem. Educ.1956, 33, 300.

Nuclear / Radiochemistry

Atomic-weight variations in natureBoggs, James E.Atoms of the same element may have different masses (due to isotopic differences) depending on their source.Boggs, James E. J. Chem. Educ.1955, 32, 400.

Atomic Properties / Structure |

Nuclear / Radiochemistry |

Isotopes

A demonstration fog chamberSlabaugh, W. H.Presents a diagram of a glass-enclosed box to be used as a fog chamber for examining the tracks of subatomic particles.Slabaugh, W. H. J. Chem. Educ.1955, 32, 269.

Recent history of the notion of a chemical speciesBulloff, Jack J.Quantum and nuclear chemistry have challenged the doctrine that chemical elements are homogeneous entities while studies of the structure and stoichiometry of solids invite a change in our ideas of definite proportions in chemical combinations.Bulloff, Jack J. J. Chem. Educ.1953, 30, 78.

Nuclear chemistry in the curricula of American colleges and universitiesWilliams, Russell R., Jr.; Hamill, William H.Presents the results of a questionnaire received from 192 colleges and universities regarding the nature of and factors influencing their chemistry curricula with respect to nuclear chemistry.Williams, Russell R., Jr.; Hamill, William H. J. Chem. Educ.1952, 29, 332.

Nuclear / Radiochemistry

Radiations from radioactive materialsOrban, EdwardLists many radioactive minerals and ores and their sources and describes some simple demonstrations of radioactivity.Orban, Edward J. Chem. Educ.1952, 29, 289.

Experiments on radioactivity in the first course in college chemistryBrown, Charles A.; Rochow, E. G.Experiments described include the detection and measurement of radioactivity; comparing the penetrative power of beta and gamma radiation; separating thorium from uranium; and determining the half-life of iodine 128.Brown, Charles A.; Rochow, E. G. J. Chem. Educ.1951, 28, 521.

Nuclear / Radiochemistry |

Isotopes |

Separation Science

Autoradiography as a science projectHuber, William S.Describes several autoradiography techniques in which photographic plates are exposed to radioactive sources.Huber, William S. J. Chem. Educ.1951, 28, 226.